Osaka Governor Yoshimura Wants Referendum on Metropolis Plan Alongside Spring Elections
Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura (leader of the Osaka Ishin no Kai party) expressed his intention to hold a referendum on the "Osaka Metropolis Plan," the party's signature policy, on the same day as the unified local elections next spring. This would be the third referendum on the plan. Yoshimura stated he would run for governor again if the referendum is held during his term, but would withdraw if it becomes unfeasible. The Osaka City Council, where Ishin holds a majority, is expected to vote in favor of establishing a legal council for the plan, with the Osaka Prefectural Assembly also indicating support if the city council passes the motion. If both councils approve, the legal council could convene as early as June.